Grand Junction Poker Run Rallies Community for Alzheimer’s Awareness

Motorcyclists ride to raise funds and awareness for a disease affecting over 7 million Americans

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A heartfelt event rolled through Mesa County this weekend as First Light Home Care hosted a charity poker run on Saturday, May 10, aimed at supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The event, which blended community engagement with a cause-driven mission, brought together dozens of local riders who traversed a five-stop route on motorcycles, collecting playing cards at each location. At the end of the run, participants competed for the best poker hand — but for most, the real prize was raising money and awareness for the Alzheimer’s Association.

A Ride for a Cure

Behind the event was Lori Henderson, founder of the ride and owner of First Light Home Care. For her, the cause is deeply personal.

“It’s a terrible disease and we need to find a cure,” Henderson said. “It affects so many people. My mom is actually suffering from dementia right now… and I see so many others impacted by Alzheimer’s every day.”

Henderson added that while her mother’s condition has not yet been formally diagnosed as Alzheimer’s, the toll is evident — both for families and for caregivers.

Community-Driven Support

The ride not only served as a fundraiser but also as a form of public education. Through informal talks and personal stories shared at each stop, organizers aimed to illuminate just how widespread Alzheimer’s has become.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over 7 million Americans currently live with the disease. That number is expected to climb significantly as the population ages.

Funds raised from the event will go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association to support research, education, and caregiver support programs.

Event Format

Participants: Motorcyclists from across the Grand Junction area
Route: Five stops across Mesa County
Entry prize: Best five-card poker hand drawn from route cards
Proceeds: Donated to the Alzheimer’s Association

Riders were greeted at each stop by volunteers and staff members sharing literature, snacks, and stories. The mood throughout the day was a mix of camaraderie and reflection, as riders honored loved ones lost or currently battling memory disorders.

Looking Ahead

First Light Home Care hopes to make the poker run an annual tradition, building on its success this year. The organization provides in-home care services to seniors and adults with disabilities, many of whom live with Alzheimer’s or related conditions.

Henderson emphasized the need for ongoing community involvement, research funding, and public understanding.